Hyde Park features beautiful open spaces that have made it a popular tourist attraction. However, there are many little known facts about this Grade I-listed park that people do not know.
1. Speakers’ Corner – an area where debate and open-air public speaking are allowed
Speaker’s Corner is a part of the park that’s designed for giving the public a voice. People have been using it to exercise their right to express their opinions without restraint or legal penalty. People often stand on soap-boxes and start teaching, informing, discussing or preaching to the word on various issues.
2. Pet Cemetary – home to pet graves
Through the years, Hyde Park has been used as a burial ground for beloved pets. The first resident was Cherry, a terrier who passed away in 1881. The lodge-keeper allowed the dog’s owner to bury his pet on the grounds since they were friends. More people started burring their pets after the news spread. The park is currently home to more than 300 pet graves.
3. Hunting ground – a hunting ground for Henry VIII of England
In 1536, Hyde Park was made to be Henry VIII’s hunting ground. He bought the land so that he together with his lords would have a place where they could practice their hunting skills. It was not until 16437 that the grounds became a park after Charles I of England opened the place to the public.
4. Nature – a hotspot for birdwatching
Hyde Park has more than 4,000 trees, with the parks famous Rose Garden hosting more than 100 species of roses for guests to enjoy. The Serpentine attracts numerous songbirds to Hyde Park, including dunnocks, long-tailed tits and robins. This makes the place a great spot for birdwatching
5. Street lighting – historic track with numerous gas lanterns
There’s a historic track called Rotton Row, a broad 4,541 ft track running through Hyde Park and connects the Serpentine and Hyde Park Corner. It was established in the 17th century by William III, becoming the first place to have street lighting in Britain. William III installed more than 300 gas lanterns along this path because it was his regular route. Here is a site with more information about Hyde Park
There is a lot of amazing things to see or do at Hyde Park, making it perfect for visitors who want to experience a quieter side of the British capital. When planning their trip to Hyde Park, London, visitors should book accommodation beforehand. There are contemporary, stylish hotels on Hyde Park. Royal Lancaster London offers spacious rooms overlooking over the magnificent Hyde Park.
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